Rounding out the month of January with culinary choices

If your New Year's resolutions resolution has fizzled, fear not. The beginning of the year is an arbitrary marker. Start again. My high hopes of delving deep into the foodie festivities of 2019 have been a bit neglected. By neglected I mean to say that if I'm not going to work, I'm lounging in my pajamas for most of the day. Rather than wallow in my failure to be more involved, I'm keeping my ear to the ground with regard to upcoming opportunities. Say, here's a few now:

The Blue Octopus, now situated in Tacoma's Proctor District, hosts a plethora of foodie-focused gatherings for those looking to hone their culinary prowess. Lumpia making, pasta from scratch and more. One such event is Thursday, Jan. 17, at 6 p.m., with a Gnocchi Making Class with Chef Zach Caraway. This is a hands-on opportunity with fellow foodies and lovers of gnocchi. Not only is this a start-to-finish course, but informational, too. Chef Zach will share the history of gnocchi and send you home with your hand-crafted goods and a recipe card. A glass of wine, beer or bubbles will also be provided to fuel your learning journey. Chef Zach will also guide a Pappardelle and Ravioli course in February. Find tickets at theblueoctopus.com and take a peek at other upcoming courses. 3820 N. 27th St., Tacoma

On Jan. 19, Puget Sound Family Health hosts a cooking class called, Let's Cook Through Cancer Treatment. Naturopath and author, Doctor Lisa Price, guides the group through approachable healthy meal planning that support those going through cancer treatment. This equates to nutrient rich foods on the fly. This class is free and open to all, even if you're not experiencing cancer treatment in your journey. 10-11:30 a.m., 711 Court A, Ste 100, Tacoma

Also occurring on the 19th of January is a Grow Your Own Microgreens class at Marlene's Market in Federal Way. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., connect with microgreens expert and founder of Greenman Microgreens, Laurence Mack McLaughlin, for a lesson on how to cultivate your own wee, gourmet greens. They are packed with nutrients and provide a delightful touch of color to any plate. Pre-registration is preferred. 2565 S. Gateway Center Place, Federal Way

The Pacific Grill is hosting another of their decadent wine-pairing dinners Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. This month, they partner with renowned, Duckhorn WIne Company. At this intimate gathering, diners can enjoy six courses that are artfully crafted to pair with six Duckhorn varietals. Must be 21 and older to attend; ticket is required and seating is very limited. Find tickets at pacificgrilltacoma.com or call 253.627.3535. 1502 Pacific Ave., Tacoma